Rolling forested mountains surrounding Hot Springs National Park under a partly cloudy sky, showcasing lush greenery and natural peaks.

Explore top attractions and hidden gems, plus Hot Springs National Park campgrounds for a restorative camping escape.

<p dir="ltr">Step into the heart of the Ouachita Mountains at Hot Springs National Park, where natural hot springs, forested trails, and historic bathhouses create an unforgettable and rejuvenating escape. Wander the iconic Bathhouse Row, soak in mineral-rich thermal springs, hike forested trails like West Mountain and Gulpha Gorge, and discover hidden waterfalls along the way. From outdoor adventure to peaceful escapes, this guide will help you uncover the best attractions, outdoor experiences, and Hot Springs National Park campgrounds for a restorative camping escape.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">About Hot Springs National Park</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Established in 1832, Hot Springs National Park is the oldest federally protected area in the United States. Located in the Ouachita Mountains and part of the Interior Highlands, the park is renowned for its naturally heated springs and historic bathhouses that line the famed Bathhouse Row. This unique destination blends outdoor adventure with wellness tourism, offering visitors scenic drives, historic architecture, and trails that wind through lush landscapes.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The park isn&rsquo;t just a feast for the eyes&mdash;it&rsquo;s a journey through history and nature, making it a must-visit for camping in Arkansas. From the soothing thermal waters to the striking mountain views, Hot Springs National Park delivers an experience that rejuvenates both body and spirit.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Things to do in Hot Springs National Park</h2>
<p dir="ltr">There is no shortage of <a href="https://roadtrippers.com/magazine/hot-springs-national-park-arkansas/"><span style="color: #169179;"><strong>Hot Springs National Park attractions</strong></span></a>, from the ornate bathhouses of Bathhouse Row to soothing thermal waters and scenic trails, the park offers experiences that appeal to both explorers and those seeking relaxation. Just beyond the springs, downtown Hot Springs invites you to stroll historic streets, enjoy local dining, and take in panoramic views of the rolling Ouachita Mountains.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Tour Bathhouse Row and Historic Thermal Bathhouses</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Bathhouse Row Hot Springs is the heart of the park&rsquo;s history. These beautifully preserved bathhouses date back to the early 1900s, showcasing ornate architecture and a glimpse into the wellness culture of the past. Take a guided tour or simply stroll along the row, imagining the generations who came here to soak in the mineral-rich waters.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Relax in Hot Springs Thermal Baths</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Hot Springs&rsquo; thermal baths are fed by naturally heated, mineral-rich waters that have been enjoyed for centuries for their soothing and therapeutic qualities. Visitors can choose from a variety of bath experiences, including private tubs, communal soaking rooms, or spa treatments that combine massages and mineral therapies. After a day of hiking the Ouachita Mountains or exploring downtown Hot Springs, soaking in these warm waters helps relieve muscle tension, reduce stress, and restore energy, making it a unique wellness experience that blends history with relaxation.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Visit the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center is an excellent starting point for any trip. Pick up maps, trail guides, and park information, or attend ranger-led programs to learn more about the park&rsquo;s history, geology, and wildlife.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Explore Downtown Hot Springs</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Historic downtown Hot Springs sits just minutes from the park and offers a mix of dining, local breweries, boutique shops, and cultural landmarks. Stroll the Hot Springs Grand Promenade, stop at art galleries or the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center, and enjoy scenic overlooks that showcase the Ouachita Mountains and the city&rsquo;s historic architecture.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Outdoor Recreation in Hot Springs National Park</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">Hot Springs National Park Hikes</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Hot Springs National Park is home to scenic trails that wind through the Ouachita Mountains, offering a mix of challenging climbs, gentle walks, and picturesque views. Whether you&rsquo;re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a relaxing stroll, there&rsquo;s a trail here for everyone.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Grand Promenade Trail</h4>
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<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Length: ~0.7 mile round trip</p>
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<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Difficulty: Easy</p>
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<p dir="ltr">This gentle, paved walking route begins near Bathhouse Row and climbs gradually up to a picnic area and overlook, making it a great choice for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a short, refreshing walk without steep terrain. The trail passes through shaded forest and offers views of the park and nearby historic sites, plus connections to other short paths like the Oertel and Tufa Terrace trails if you want to extend your walk slightly.<strong><br></strong></p>
<h4 dir="ltr">West Mountain Trail</h4>
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<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Length: 1.6 miles round trip</p>
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<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Difficulty: Moderate</p>
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<p dir="ltr">This Hot Springs hiking trail features scenic lookout points with sweeping views of Hot Springs city and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. Along the way, you&rsquo;ll pass dense forest areas, rocky outcrops, and several spots perfect for photography. Ideal for mid-level hikers looking for a short, rewarding climb.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Hot Springs Mountain Tower Trail</h4>
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<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Length: 1.5 miles round trip</p>
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<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous</p>
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<p dir="ltr">Hike up to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic views that stretch over the Ouachita Mountains and Hot Springs. The trail has some steep sections and uneven terrain, but the summit reward is unmatched, especially during sunrise or sunset. Perfect for photographers and those wanting an aerial perspective of the park.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Gulpha Gorge Trail</h4>
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<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Length: 3 miles round trip</p>
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<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Difficulty: Moderate</p>
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<p dir="ltr">This shaded trail follows Gulpha Creek, providing a peaceful hiking experience with soothing sounds of flowing water. The trail features a mix of gentle slopes and moderate inclines, ideal for families and hikers seeking a longer walk with creekside scenery. Watch for wildlife, including deer and a variety of bird species.&nbsp;</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Hot Springs National Park Waterfalls</h3>
<h4 dir="ltr">Hemmed-In Hollow Falls</h4>
<p dir="ltr">Nestled deep in the forested Ouachita Mountains, Hemmed-In Hollow Falls cascades over layered sandstone into a tranquil pool below. The area is shaded by tall pine and oak trees, making it a peaceful spot for photographers and nature lovers seeking quiet away from the main trails.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Daisy Creek Falls</h4>
<p dir="ltr">Daisy Creek Falls features a series of small, sparkling cascades along the creek that winds through lush undergrowth. Wildflowers bloom nearby in spring, creating a colorful foreground for hikers looking to combine a short walk with waterfall views.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Thermal Springs Cascade</h4>
<p dir="ltr">Located near the historic Bathhouse Row area, this shallow cascade flows over naturally heated mineral rocks. Visitors can admire the way the warm waters mingle with the cold creek, offering a unique glimpse into the park&rsquo;s geothermal features.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Hot Springs National Park Wildlife</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Early morning and late afternoon hikes provide the best opportunities for wildlife observation, when animals are most active and the forest is calm. Photographers will find soft, golden light illuminating fur, feathers, and natural surroundings, creating perfect conditions for wildlife photography. Being patient, moving quietly, and keeping a safe distance allows you to witness behaviors like deer grazing, birds feeding their young, or raccoons exploring creek banks, turning a simple hike into a memorable encounter with the park&rsquo;s wildlife.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>White-tailed deer: </strong>Often spotted grazing in forest clearings or along quieter trails.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Birds:</strong> Keep an eye out for woodpeckers, hawks, and songbirds, especially along Gulpha Gorge and West Mountain trails.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Small mammals:</strong> Raccoons, squirrels, and rabbits are frequently seen in the early morning or near creeks.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Reptiles &amp; Amphibians:</strong> Frogs, turtles, and lizards inhabit creekside areas, particularly in spring and summer.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Best Time to Visit Hot Springs National Park</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">Spring</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Spring is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, with trails like West Mountain and Gulpha Gorge are fully accessible, creeks are flowing, and waterfalls like Hemmed-In Hollow are at their peak. Wildflowers bloom along forest paths, and wildlife such as deer, raccoons, and songbirds are active, making spring ideal for hiking and camping.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Summer</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Summer brings warm, humid weather, making early mornings and late afternoons the best times for hiking trails like Hot Springs Mountain Tower or Gulpha Gorge. Thermal baths, Lake Hamilton, and nearby swimming spots are ideal for cooling off after outdoor activities.&nbsp;</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Fall&nbsp;</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Fall offers crisp, clear air that makes hiking more comfortable and scenic drives particularly enjoyable. The changing leaves turn the Ouachita Mountains into a mix of red, orange, and yellow, creating colorful overlooks along trails and park roads. Cooler temperatures bring increased visibility for wildlife, making it easier to spot deer, hawks, and other animals preparing for winter.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Winter</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Winter brings quiet, peaceful conditions with fewer visitors on the trails and scenic drives. Many trees lose their leaves, opening up unobstructed views of the Ouachita Mountains and surrounding valleys. Wildlife such as deer, raccoons, and wintering birds are easier to observe, and the park&rsquo;s thermal springs and bathhouses offer a warm retreat from the cooler air.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Know Before You Go</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Hot Springs National Park is free to enter, though certain guided programs, historic tours, and thermal bath experiences may require a fee. Visitor centers provide maps, trail guides, restroom facilities, and ranger-led programs for hiking, history, and wildlife education. Trails range from easy, flat walks like the Grand Promenade to moderate or strenuous hikes such as West Mountain and Hot Springs Mountain Tower, so wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Hot Springs National Park weather can change quickly&mdash;rain, wind, or sudden temperature shifts are common&mdash;so dress in layers and check conditions before heading out.&nbsp;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Hot Springs National Park Camping</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Camping near Hot Springs National Park combines easy access to the park&rsquo;s historic bathhouses, scenic mountain trails, and natural hot springs with a variety of accommodations and amenities that traditional park campsites may not provide. Choose from RV sites, tent camping, cabins, glamping tents, and nearby vacation rentals to find the perfect base for your Hot Springs camping adventure. Many private campgrounds and RV parks offer extras like onsite dining, community fire pits, swimming pools, and planned activities, making it easy to relax, connect with other travelers, and enjoy quality time outdoors. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your ideal spot. Whether you prefer a rustic camping experience or a more luxurious stay, nearby campgrounds provide a welcoming home base for exploring Hot Springs attractions.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Find Campgrounds and RV Parks Near Hot Springs National Park</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Exploring Hot Springs National Park is a unique way to enjoy natural hot springs, historic bathhouses, and scenic Ouachita Mountain landscapes, and camping nearby puts you within easy reach of it all. Surrounding campgrounds offer a variety of lodging options and amenities, allowing you to unwind after hiking, sightseeing, or soaking in thermal baths. Explore these <a href="https://www.spot2nite.com/rv-camping/united-states/arkansas/hot-springs"><span style="color: #169179;"><strong>Hot Springs campgrounds</strong></span></a> on Spot2Nite and book with the <a href="https://www.spot2nite.com/p/lowest-price-guarantee"><span style="color: #169179;"><strong>lowest price guarantee</strong></span></a> to ensure your spot for the Hot Springs National Park camping escape of a lifetime.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Hot Springs National Park RV + Campsite Packages</h2>
<p>Explore RV adventure near Hot Springs National Park like never before with <a href="https://campgrounds.rvshare.com/p/experiences/hot-springs-national-park-rv-campsite-packages"><span style="color: #169179;"><strong>RVshare Getaways</strong></span></a>. These all-in-one camping packages bundle your RV rental and campsite into a single shopping cart experience. Each stay includes your campsite reservation and a fully equipped, turnkey RV ready when you arrive, plus a free Annual National Park Pass to make exploring easier. Whether you&rsquo;re new to RV camping or a seasoned RVer wanting to try out a new rig, this is an effortless way to enjoy RV camping near Hot Springs where you can relax in thermal baths, wander scenic national park trails, and discover the historic charm of downtown Hot Springs.</p>

Hot Springs National Park Camping

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